Being convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) can pose some serious challenges when you need to insure your car. Your insurance will increase, but there are ways to find affordable insurance, even after making this kind of mistake.
DUI Forgiveness
There are some auto insurers that will forgive a first at-fault accident, but, unfortunately, there are none that will ignore a DUI conviction. There are variations of penalty, however. Some may cancel or refuse to renew your policy, which, sadly, will make two strikes against you – a DUI and a cancellation.
There are companies that will offer you insurance – at a higher premium, mind you – so it will pay to shop around. Spokesman for the Insurance Information Network of California, Pete Moraga says, “Make calls. Go on the Internet and eventually you will find a company that best suits your needs until the DUI disappears from your record.”
Several insurance companies work on a case-by-case basis and will weigh a number of factors into their decision on what premium they will charge you – things like gender, age, vehicle model, and driving history can go into their decision.
How Long Will a DUI Affect My Insurance Rates?
DUIs will usually stay on your criminal record for life, however, insurance companies will look at what’s on your state’s DMV record; when your DUI is cleared from this record, you’ll be eligible for lower auto insurance rates.
How long your DUI stays on your record will vary by state – anywhere from five to 10 years, typically. There are states in which it could remain much longer. Your local DMV will be able to give you information in this regard.
Thu, Apr 1, 2010
Auto Insurance